The Defense Forces—Between Identity and Ethos

ABSTRACT: In the past two decades, in addition to the three traditional pillars of the IDF strategic concept (decisive victory, early warning and deterrence), 'defense' was added as a fourth pillar. Simultaneously, a "border defense army" was founded, and within it the border security apparatus that is part of the IDF's ground forces. Due to a lack of acknowledgment of its uniqueness, this apparatus is insufficiently utilized. Feelings of superfluousness and inferiority in comparison to the maneuver forces, an unclear professional identity and morale attrition during  routine security activities,  are all harming the border security apparatus in force design and employment. In order to overcome these challenges a professional and organizational reforms are required, that will assist in creating a professional identity for these units.

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